Title

Author

Publication Date

4-6-2018

Document Type

Poster

Department

Kinesiology & Recreation

Mentor

Scott Pierce

Mentor Department

Kinesiology & Recreation

Abstract

Personality is commonly examined using the Big Five characteristics, including extraversion, agreeableness, conscientiousness, neuroticism and openness. Across multiple domains, these characteristics have been found to influence individual behaviors and motivation. An individual's motivational orientation can be categorized as being task-focused (i.e., motivated by personal improvement) or ego-focused (i.e., motivated by outperforming another individual). With a focus on a unique athlete population, the purpose of this study is to examine the correlation between personality factors and motivational orientations in circus performers. The purpose of this study is to examine the correlation between personality factors and motivational orientations in circus performers. Methods: Approximately 80 male and female gamma phi circus performers at Illinois State University will be surveyed for this study. The personality characteristics will be assessed using the big-five inventory scale, while the basis behind each performer's motivation will be assessed using the task and ego orientation in sport questionnaire (TEOSQ). Demographics include age, years in circus, and gender. The surveys will be disseminated at a regularly scheduled troupe meeting during practice. Results: Results will be analyzed post survey and will be presented at the symposium. We hypothesize that introverted people will have greater task orientation when compared to extroverted people. We hypothesize that older members of the Gamma Phi Circus will have increased tendencies towards openness to new experiences based upon the big-five personality scale. We also hypothesize that members in leadership positions would be more task oriented than members without leadership positions. Conclusion: The information provided by this study should provide researchers and others interested in circus artists a better understanding on potential effects and relationships between goal orientation and personality components. Additional conclusions will be determined post survey.